NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Boston Bruins at Toronto Maple Leafs - Source: Imagn — Joseph Woll injury: Craig Berube provides major update on Maple Leafs goalie's return timeline (Credits: IMAGN)

Joseph Woll injury: Craig Berube provides major update on Maple Leafs goalie's return timeline

Modified Oct 21, 2024 16:12 GMT

Joseph Woll has faced injury challenges in his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, which was something they had to consider when signing him to his current contract. His health has already impacted the season, and in his absence, Anthony Stolarz has stepped in and played well.

However, Woll, who is their number one goalie on the depth chart, is expected to be back soon. The Hockey News' David Alter said that it's possible that Woll will be in the lineup as soon as tomorrow.

"Craig Berube says it possible that Joseph Woll will be ready for tomorrow," Woll posted on X.

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Coach Craig Berube said that Woll could return for the team's matchup with the Columbus Blue Jackets. The team is facing the Tampa Bay Lightning in a high-profile match tonight, but Woll won't play.

Since tomorrow's game is a rare back-to-back in the NHL, it's even more vital for Woll to return to provide some depth in goal so that Stolarz and prospect Dennis Hildeby aren't overworked in the two consecutive game days.

Joseph Woll discusses early injury struggles

Joseph Woll has dealt with more than a few injuries in his career. One has kept him largely off the ice in the early going for what has been a solid start to the Toronto Maple Leafs' year.

Joseph Woll opened up on his health struggles (Imagn)

He said via The Hockey Writers of his ailment:

“Yeah, you know, just a little groin tightness and feeling better now. Right now, I’m just focused on coming back."

The goalie also added that he doesn't feel good about his health when he gets hurt:

“Anytime you get injured, the initial emotion is a little bit of frustration, a little disappointment.”

Since his injury, Woll has been "focused on doing everything" he can to get back into top shape. In his absence, Anthony Stolarz and Dennis Hildeby have stepped up to hold down the net, but the Leafs have committed to Woll as their number one goaltender. So far, his health has prevented that from happening, but he looks to be very close to a return now.